I first met Dave in about 1989. He was working as a wrench in a shop up in Lynnwood WA several miles north of Seattle. I'd just purchased my first Guzzi - a '72 El Dorado Police version. The then small Guzzi community around here knew about Dave and that he was premiere Guzzi guy at that shop of other European models. I had a ton of questions as I was going to restore it completely. He was more than generous with his time and knowledge and we became friends.
Not too long after that, a business opportunity came and he was the proprietor of Moto International. The new shop was down on First Ave south of "The Kingdome" ( remember that?) Herb was the main wrench.
I was so happy I didn't have to go all the way to Lynnwood any longer, this was only about 10 miles away. I bought my first new Guzzi there, a '96 Cali but kept my old Eldo. I could never decide which ride I liked better..probably the one I was on.
A year or so later, I went over an embankment on the Eldo and bent the front forks. talking with Dave about it, he happened mention. he had a front end from a '74 (with disc brake!) and he could make it work. He more than took care of and got me back on the Eldo in swift time. I was happy I had the '96 to ride in the meantime.
Soon there was news they were going to move. Imagine my happiness when the place on Aurora was chosen, this time only about 2 miles away! Micha and Jason came on board as the main wrenches and it was always easy and convenient to take the bikes there when needed.
Over the years I bought a traded in 2 more Guzzis there a '02 EV and my present '07 Vintage.
It was a sad day when Dave retired, although thrilled for him, I knew things were not going to be same.
This last weekend I drove by the shop but couldn't bring myself to go in...This year has seen a lot of changes in my area to places I frequented. Sears closed, Sams Club closed and now Moto International has closed. I wish the very best for all involved with the shop and their future plans, I also hope to continue the Guzzi tradition and have to believe there will other resources near. Our Seattle Guzzi community has grown by leaps and bounds since I became a member.
Kevin in Seattle